Police Ordered To Arrest Unscrupulous Trader Dealing In Fake KRA Stamps

A warrant of arrest has been issued by the Iten Law Court Senior Principal Magistrate Hon. Gladys Odhiambo against Festus Koech Tuitoek, a suspect found in possession of alcoholic drinks affixed with counterfeit stamps in Kimnai Trading Center, Marakwet West Sub-County within Elgeyo Marakwet County, after he failed to appear for plea taking in a tax fraud case.

Tuitoek is charged with being in possession of 416 bottles of African Special Vodka, 348 bottles of Smart Vodka and 116 bottles of Magic Times Gin each of 250ml all affixed with counterfeit excise stamps at Kapkoi bar occasioning the Commissioner a total tax liability of Kshs.126,158.39/= comprising of an excise duty loss of Kshs.78,412.4/= and VAT loss of Kshs.47,745.99/=.

The Court also ordered the forfeiture of the police cash bail earlier placed by the suspect. The case comes up for mention on 13th May, 2025 to confirm arrest.

If guilty, the accused will serve a jail term not exceeding three years or a fine not exceeding five million shillings or both as provided for by the Excise Duty Act 2015 as amended by Section 43 of the Finance Act 2023.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) in collaboration with other Partner Government Agencies, are continuously pursuing unscrupulous traders involved in ethanol smuggling, manufacture and distribution of alcohol products that are affixed with counterfeit excise stamps as well as production of the counterfeit excise stamps.

KRA is also actively unearthing tax evasion schemes to boost tax compliance and adherence to tax laws and procedures while ensuring fair trade within the market. Taxpayers are urged to pay their taxes to avoid punitive enforcements measures that include prosecution.

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